Solar energy project worth Ksh.10 billion launched by Ruto to power marginalized areas of Kenya

Posted on : Tuesday , 25th February 2025

President William Ruto announced a new Ksh.10 billion project that will help over a million Kenyans living in underserved areas of the nation.

Kenya's energy revolution will be significantly expanded with the establishment of 113 mini-grids in 14 counties through the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project (KOSAP).

"The present-day event is more than just an agreement signing; it's a reaffirmation of our unwavering dedication to inclusive development." Ruto stated during the signing of the 14 project contracts at the Stima Club grounds in Kasarani Sub-County, Nairobi.

It makes it quite evident that no Kenyan will be left behind in the advancement of our country, regardless of where they live or their background," Ruto added.

Garissa, Isiolo, Kilifi, Kwale, Lamu, Mandera, Marsabit, Narok, Samburu, Taita Taveta, Tana River, Turkana, Wajir, and West Pokot are the counties that will benefit.  

The government is working with the African Development Bank and the World Bank to carry out the project.

Governors Issa Timamy of Lamu and Godhana Dhadho of Tana River attended the event, along with World Bank Country Director for Kenya Dr. Qimiao Fan.  

The President declared that a further six contracts totaling Ksh.438 million will guarantee that 343 administrative offices, schools, and public health facilities are powered by independent solar systems.  

Furthermore, Ruto added that the Ksh. 1.6 billion purchase of 316 solar water pumps for boreholes is nearing completion.  

The President admitted that while Kenya has made strides in improving access to power, from 29% in 2013 to 75% now, the development has not been consistent.

"While electricity is growing in urban centres along major trade routes, vast rural areas remain in darkness," he stated.  

1.2 million people have been linked through Kenya Power's Last Mile Connectivity program and an additional 460,000 are expected to gain access by 2026.

Out of 93,000 public utilities, including 22,600 public primary schools, the government has linked 63,000 of them through the Rural Electrification and Renewable Energy Corporation (REREC).

The government's goal of having a system powered entirely by clean energy by 2030 was reiterated by the president. He noted that solar PV systems are being hybridized with diesel-powered stations.

According to the president, the government in Turkana is expanding the national grid in place of Kenya Power's diesel power plant.

"We are strengthening our climate commitments, lowering energy costs and decreasing our reliance on expensive and polluting diesel power while improving access," he stated.

He also instructed the Ministry of Energy to bring electricity to Nairobi's informal settlements, highlighting the fact that inhabitants have been without it for a number of years.

President Ruto reaffirmed his dedication to using the numerous projects he has started over the previous two years to transform Kenya.  

The event was also attended by Energy Cabinet Secretary Opiyo Wandayi, Energy Principal Secretary Alex Wachira, MPs, MCAs, and leaders from the community.